T.O. to the Bengals? Don't hold your breath

Chad Ochocinco has made it known — over and over and over again — that he'd like the Bengals to sign free agent receiver Terrell Owens (pictured), who isn't likely to return to the Bills in 2010.

How serious are the Bengals taking Ochocinco? Well, let's put it this way. I'm told by a source famiiar with the team's situation that Ochocinco is the only one discussing the matter. The source said it's not impossible that Owens will be a Bengal in 2010, but it's very preliminary at this point.

The more interesting situation at receiver revolves around Laveranues Coles, who last year signed a four-year, $28 million deal after he forced his release from the Jets. Coles was a disappointment last year with only 43 catches for 514 yards and five touchdowns. Not only that, but he suffered a concussion in the Bengals' playoff loss to the Jets, continuing a string of concussion-related problems in recent years.

It doesn't say much for Coles that Ochocinco is lobbying for Owens to play opposite him in the starting lineup. Not only that, but the Bengals took a chance on former Jaguars receiver Matt Jones, who missed last season after being suspended for the first three games. Jones remained unsigned the rest of the season.